By February it seems that winter has lasted long enough for it to be on its way out, but there are still more chilly days ahead. It’s tempting to curl up in bed with a cup of hot cocoa and stay inside until spring. Good news is there are several ways to enjoy the outdoors during this final stretch of cold. Once you get a handle on the following recreational winter activities, you may find yourself wanting the snow and frigid temps to stick around a little longer.
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Snowshoeing
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Snowshoeing only requires a pair of snowshoes and an adventurous spirit. Not only does it keep you in shape, but it’s also fairly easy to learn and is a fitting winter alternative to walking or running. Snowshoeing allows one to explore nature and travel off the beaten path—it can even make for a day of family fun. It’s usually permitted anywhere walking is, and the scenery at Sands Point Preserve and Cold Spring Harbor State Park surely does not disappoint.
Cross-country skiing
The perfect cross between relaxation and exercise, cross-country skiing is the ideal way to get moving and explore the scenic parks and preserves of Long Island. Comparable to a combination of walking and skating, cross-country skiing is like gliding across the wintry landscape. Ski at whatever speed; make it a hard workout or a tranquil wander. All that’s needed is a pair of cross-country skis, boots, poles and warm clothes! Check out Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve or Bethpage State Park to get started.
Fat tire biking
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Calling all exercise enthusiasts! Looking for an extreme winter training session? Fat tire bikes exploded as a trend a few years ago for their ability to handle several different terrains and for providing intense workouts. Luckily, riders who fall in love with fat tire biking during the winter don’t have to say goodbye to the sport in the spring—these workouts are good for the whole year! Take them for a spin at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve.
Ice Skating
A classic winter activity that’ll never get old—just strap on a pair of ice skates and head over to a nearby rink or winter sports club. It may be difficult to get the hang of skating at first, but balancing on the ice will come easily with just a little bit of practice. The rink at Christopher Morley Park is a great place to get started.
Snowboarding
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Love alpine skiing? Might as well give its counterpart a try. Though snowboarding cannot be done locally like these other activities, there are several nearby ski and snowboard resorts—Windham, Camelback and Hunter Mountain—that are suitable for day or weekend trips. The trails are waiting to be shredded, and your busy schedule makes a mini getaway even more necessary.